‘You sure you've got the right number?' – Snooker star who watched Crucible in pants suffering from imposter syndrome

The Sun

2 days ago

SNOOKER star Zak Surety revealed he still suffers from imposter syndrome despite his growing success in the sport.
Surety, 33, has made headlines ever since his semi-final run at the World Open in February before beating Antoni Kowalski, Jack Lisowski and Ricky Walden to make his Crucible debut in April.
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The Essex cueman has come a long way from watching the World Snooker Championship at home in his pants, as he previously revealed four months ago.
But despite all of his recent victories, the star from Basildon still struggles with anxiety and intrusive thoughts even though he has proven he belongs in the same category as the best.
So much so that he receives texts from superstars like Neil Robertson and wonders if they got the wrong number.
Surety told Metro: "I still get imposter syndrome around everything I do. I sit there at night and think: 'Am I really going to do that tomorrow?'
"For example, driving up here [to the Championship League] and I've had Neil Robertson text me asking if I fancy a couple of games next week?
"His name pops up on my phone. I'm thinking: 'Are you sure you've got the right number?'
"I feel like I'm still…the imposter syndrome is still there every day but I do feel like I'm more of a player.
"I'm going in the club in the morning, I know what I'm doing and I'm happier away from the table.
"That's the biggest thing, away from the table, because there were times I just didn't want to play anymore.
"But now with my girlfriend, we have a laugh in the evening, we have a laugh at the club which is a lot more chill, I think."
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Surety is still dealing with some of those negative thoughts while playing at top level.
However, the snooker star knows how much he has improved and that has raised his confidence.
Surety added: "Every time I'm playing, I'm still sort of thinking…the thoughts haven't changed, but I'm aware that I'm doing a bit better, so obviously that brings confidence.
"But I never really feel still settled out there, I'm still a bit edgy. I'm waiting for that day when I go: 'You know, I think I belong here today'. And who knows, it might happen one day.
"The only time it's happened was the second session at the Crucible. Which is mad, considering how I feel most of the time.
"I do sit in my seat trying to think differently and something has changed, definitely, with the runs I've had.
"Obviously it might put your opponents under pressure. You might be getting the odd chance more. I suppose that's just natural.
"I've got to keep riding now. I've got to keep going. Hopefully more doors open.
"Ali Carter's texted me to play next week. How good's that! I'll still be thinking like, what are you doing texting me?
"But I've got it all sorted at the moment. I'll keep pushing on and hopefully go to the next level."